Note on the Power Law Equation for Fractal-like Aerosol Agglomerates

Abstract

Aerosol agglomerates can sometimes be described by a characteristic size, a power-law exponent (fractal dimension), and a dimensionless proportionality constant (A). The importance of A has been generally overlooked, although it is necessary for the calculation of agglomerate size. Values of A were calculated from previously published data for the radius of gyration and mobility diameter of fractal-like agglomerates. The value of A is approximately one, but depends on the detailed kinetics of the coagulation mechanism, the fractal dimension, and the characteristic agglomerate size.